Over 25,000 residents are set to benefit from a Sh3 million water and sanitation project following the commissioning of the initiative by the Kenya Pipeline Company Foundation.
KPC managing director and Board of Trustees chairman, Joe Sang, the project will ensure a reliable supply of water.
“Today, Kenya’s water supply and sanitation is characterised by low levels of access especially in the urban slums and rural areas. St Patrick’s Secondary School Ofafa students and the neighbouring Maringo communities will now have access to clean and safe water,” Sang said.
Speaking when commissioning the project, Sang said the foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life for the communities within which KPC operates.
“The KPC Foundation has today marked a significant milestone in its commitment to enhancing access to clean water for grassroots communities,” he said.
“I am confident the water project will enhance the well-being and hygiene of the students as well as serve as a watering point for the community around here.”
In addition to a water tower and storage tanks, the borehole is equipped with features including solar powered systems, pumping and piping installations.
“Studies indicate that 15 million people in Kenya lack access to safe water. These statistics pose a challenge to each one of us to play our part in conserving our water catchment areas and use the resource responsibly,” the chairman said.
The project is part of the foundation's Corporate Social Investment strategy, aimed at empowering beneficiaries in the country in three key thematic areas; education, health and water and sanitation.
It commenced in July and is the fourth water project undertaken by the foundation, after similar initiatives in Meru, Kajiado and Nairobi.
“KPC Foundation has also acquired a new borehole drilling rig, to enhance operational efficiency as it is a cost-effective measure to empower more communities to access clean water. ”
The Foundation has incorporated long-term sustainability measures to support its efforts in enhancing access to essential resources.
This is through environmental conservation activities such as tree planting, with a view to protect water catchment areas and promote responsible usage of water.
“The foundation’s projects are aligned with Sustainable Development Goal No 6, which aims to ensure universal access to safe and sustainable water management by 2030,” he said.
Maringo MCA Patrick Macharia said this will address the decades-long water challenges experienced in the area.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to KPC Foundation for their efforts in alleviating the longstanding water scarcity issue in this area. The new borehole will bring about a transformative change in improving the quality of life for everyone in the area” Macharia said.
“Access to clean, tapped water will significantly enhance the school's hygiene standards and improve the well-being of our students. The water will also be channelled to the wider community, resulting in substantial savings on water purchases,” he added.
